104.3 WOMC » Halloween Hubhttp://womc.cbslocal.com
Detroit's Greatest HitsSun, 02 Aug 2015 22:26:10 +0000hourly1http://wordpress.com/http://0.gravatar.com/blavatar/84c957f8321fb4c6a372f9a3b1a6b542?s=96&d=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.wp.com%2Fi%2Fbuttonw-com.png » Halloween Hubhttp://womc.cbslocal.com
Best Places To Get Scary Good Costumes In Metro Detroithttp://womc.cbslocal.com/top-lists/best-places-to-get-scary-good-costumes-in-metro-detroit/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/top-lists/best-places-to-get-scary-good-costumes-in-metro-detroit/#commentsFri, 25 Oct 2013 14:12:01 +0000rboschianhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?post_type=top-list&p=153443Going all out for Halloween? Then you need to know where to go to get the best possible array of options. From wacky wigs to elaborate costumes, these metro Detroit shops have everything you need […]]]>Going all out for Halloween? Then you need to know where to go to get the best possible array of options.

From wacky wigs to elaborate costumes, these metro Detroit shops have everything you need to be the star of the next Halloween gathering. And don’t worry, When friends ask where you got the idea, we’ll keep the secret for you. – Christy Strawser

(www.screamerscostumes.com)

Screamers Costumes

35431 South Gratiot Ave.
Clinton Township, MI 48035
586-790-5855www.screamerscostumes.com
If you can’t find inspiration in this 5,000 square foot retail mecca of Halloween, then you’re not looking hard enough. Visit for 130 different styles of wigs — from mullets to Dolly Parton — plus a huge selection of makeup, and an array of masks.

Costumes come in all sizes, from baby to plus-sized adult. Prosthetics include body bullet holes. Bonus: Download a coupon on their website for $10 off any $40 purchase.

(www.lynchs.com)

Lynch’s

939 Howard Street
Dearborn, MI 48124
(313)565-3425www.lynchs.com
Serving Metro Detroit since 1949, Lynch’s is located right off of Michigan Avenue in the middle of downtown Dearborn. Lynch’s sells and rents costumes for all events and occasions year round. For Halloween, check out the “vampire hottie” wig and the Roaring 20’s line of costumes fit for any fan of “Boardwalk Empire.” Lynch’s also has a wide selection of glasses, gloves, masks, makeup, rhinestones, dance apparel, and more.

Showtime Detroit

Think fringed leather, frayed T-shirts, and the coolest costumes west of New York. But this isn’t the place to go if you’re thinking of dressing up as Harry Potter.

(www.partycity.com)

Party City

35745 Warren Rd.
Westland, MI 48185
734-467-7594www.partycity.com
This chain has stores all over metro Detroit so check the website for more locations. This is a place for a little bit of everything, from characters for little ones to sexy costumes for Mom and Greek gods for Dad. Thinking about appearing as a version of Lady Gaga? THey have nearly two dozen options.

( DAVID HECKER/AFP/Getty Images)

Why Not Costumes

2903 Biddle
Wyandotte, MI 48192
734-283-3305
This is the place to go if you’re looking for an elaborate rental costume along the lines of Marie Antoinette or King George. You can also pop in for a full array of Halloween makeup and accessories like faux weapons and wigs.

Eclectic Attic

550 Forest Ave. #12
Plymouth, MI 48170
734-416-1186www.eclecticattic.com
If you’re looking for something truly unique, stop into this charming boutique that carries more than 5,000 period pieces, and items of high-end clothing from the early 1900’s through today. Of course when you’re there, check out the gorgeous collection of high-end consignment shoes and bags from makers like Louis Vuitton, Coach and Prada.

(www.spirithalloween.com)

Spirit Halloween

27844 Woodward Avenue
Royal Oak, MI 48067www.spirithalloween.com
Spirit Halloween stores crop up all over metro Detroit as the Halloween season gets close. Stop in for a huge array of costumes for kids and adults, and hundreds of masks. Check out masks that mock political figures, including Anthony Weiner. You’ll have to make the costume yourself. Also check out the display of pet costumes. There’s truly something for everyone in the family.

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/top-lists/best-places-to-get-scary-good-costumes-in-metro-detroit/feed/0Monster Mash: Behind The Musichttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/07/monster-mash-behind-the-music/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/07/monster-mash-behind-the-music/#commentsMon, 07 Oct 2013 13:38:44 +0000rboschianhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=152814No Halloween celebration is complete without hearing 'The Monster Mash' once an hour. Everyone knows the song, but not a lot of people know who originally performed the song and when it was released. Here are ten facts you didn't know about 'The Monster Mash.']]>No Halloween celebration is complete without hearing ‘The Monster Mash’ once an hour. Everyone knows the song, but not a lot of people know who originally performed the song and when it was released. Here are ten facts you didn’t know about ‘The Monster Mash.’

“Monster Mash” is a 1962 novelty song and the best-known song by Bobby “Boris” Pickett. The song was released as a single in August 1962.

A variation on the Mashed Potato was danced to “Monster Mash”, in which the footwork was the same but Frankenstein-style monster gestures were made with the arms and hands.

The producers came up with several low-budget but effective sound effects for the recording. For example, the sound of a coffin opening was imitated by a rusty nail being pulled out of a board. The sound of a cauldron bubbling was actually water being bubbled through a straw, and the chains rattling were simply chains being dropped on a tile floor.

The BBC had banned the record from airplay in 1962 on the grounds that the song was “too morbid”. It was re-released in the United Kingdom in 1973, where it peaked at #3 in early October.

The Beach Boys covered the song just two years after its original release, on their 1964 album Beach Boys Concert.

A 1978 Halloween episode of Happy Days featured Ron Howard performing a rendition of the song, using a Peter Lorre impression rather than Pickett’s Karloff one.

The 1996 album Test for Echo by the Canadian rock trio Rush includes an instrumental track, Limbo, which contains several samples from “Monster Mash” including the line “Whatever happened to my Transylvania Twist?”.

Mannheim Steamroller also covered the song for their 2006 album Halloween, Vol. 2: Creatures Collection.

Actor Vincent Price recorded a version of it in 1977.

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/07/monster-mash-behind-the-music/feed/0Sexy Superhero Halloween Costumeshttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/02/sexy-superhero-halloween-costumes/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/02/sexy-superhero-halloween-costumes/#commentsWed, 02 Oct 2013 18:38:57 +0000rboschianhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=152716Halloween is a great opportunity to find your inner powerful, hot chick and become your own version of a Superhero for the night.]]>Everyone loves a good Super hero. Super heroes have been the stars of comic strips for decades, out saving the world from various disasters and evil villains. Over the years women have been taking over the Super hero role in increasing ways.

Halloween is a great opportunity to find your inner powerful, hot chick and become your own version of a Superhero for the night. You may not be stopping any world disasters but you are most certainly going to have every male eye in the room on you!

Avenger

Captain America

Green Lantern

Princess Leia

Robin

Spider Girl

Super Woman

Thor

Wolverine

Wonder Woman

(photos: halloweenexpress.com)

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/02/sexy-superhero-halloween-costumes/feed/0Guide To HalloWeekends At Cedar Pointhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/top-lists/guide-to-halloweekends-at-cedar-point/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/top-lists/guide-to-halloweekends-at-cedar-point/#commentsWed, 02 Oct 2013 17:31:58 +0000rboschianhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?post_type=top-list&p=152710Every weekend night, Cedar Point transforms into a horror-filled nightmare. From mazes with terrifying creatures around every corner to thrill rides that'll haunt your dreams, it's everything you fear and more.]]>Every weekend night, Cedar Point transforms into a horror-filled nightmare. From mazes with terrifying creatures around every corner to thrill rides that’ll haunt your dreams, it’s everything you fear and more.Below is everything you need to know before you go! All outdoor shows and attractions are presented weather permitting. — By S.L. Stoddart

Getting There

There are a few different routes you can take from the metro Detroit area to get to Cedar Point — and the best part is that it will only take a couple of hours.

First, take I-75 south through Toledo. Then, merge onto I-280 south toward the Ohio Turnpike/Cleveland. Here’s where you have a variety of different ways to go. I personally like avoid the Turnpike and take the back roads, so I’ll hop off I-280 at Exit 7 for OH-2 toward Oregon. A little over 40 miles later there will be signs that direct you to Cedar Point, so just follow those.

From I-280 you can also take the Turnpike, just take Exit 1-A to merge onto I-80E/I-90E toward Cleveland. A little less than 40 miles later, you’ll take Exit 110 For OH-4. Keep driving north until you see the signs for Cedar Point and then continue to follow those.

*Insider’s Tip* Gasoline in Ohio — particularly in Toledo — is almost always cheaper than in metro Detroit. Instead of filling up the tank when you leave home, wait until you cross the state-line to save some money. It’s also a good idea to fill up on your way home before crossing back into Michigan.

The park is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through October 27.

(Credit: Cedar Point)

On Fridays, the park is open from 1 p.m. until 10 p.m (with limited ride availability). On Saturdays, the park is open from 11 a.m. until midnight. On Sundays (except for Oct. 13), the park is open from noon until 8 p.m. On Oct. 13, the park is open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Regular adult tickets are $46.99, and include all day and all night admission. Regular Jr/Sr tickets are $29.99, and include all day and all night admission. You can also buy Starlight tickets, which are valid after 6 p.m. on Fridays and 4 p.m. on Sundays, for $37.99.

Don’t forget about parking! The cost is $15 per vehicle. You can also park in a prefered section that is super close to the front gate for $25 — first come, first served.

*Insider’s Tip* Want to avoid the long lines? Cedar Point offers a special Fast Lane pass that gains the passholder front-of-the-line access to more than 20 rides — and you can ride as many times as you want, all day long. That kind of access comes with a price tag starting at $60, in addition to the admission price.

The park also offers a Fright Lane pass that gains the passholder front-of-the-line access to select haunted attractions, starting at $35 in addition to the admission price. Since you’re coming for HalloWeekends, I would highly recommend getting the Fright Lane pass. It might be a little more expensive, but think of all the time you’ll save bypassing the long lines, which usually have wait times of over an hour.

For Kids

Cedar Point puts the WEE in Halloween, every Saturday and Sunday. There’s two new family-friendly, not-so-scary adventures to explore this year in addition to the beloved spooky attractions of years past.

(Credit: S.L. Stoddart/WWJ Newsradio 950)

Howl-O-PaloozaThis all-new, reimagined area for kids is the perfect place to party! Located in the Blue Streak Plaza, Howl-O-Palooza includes:

Cedar Point’s own Friendly Monsters will be on hand for photos and more

Trick-Or-Treat with the DinosTrick-or-Treat from dinosaur to dinosaur in on Adventure Island. This is not your average trick-or-treat. There are candy stops, pumpkin decorating, prizes and crafts along the path. Plus, more than 50 life-sized, moving dinosaurs. Trick-or-Treat with the Dinosaurs is open every Saturday and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. A separate $5 ticket is required.

Charlie Brown’s Funtime FrolicsJoin Charlie Brown and the gang for fun, music, stories and surprises at 12:30 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Monster Under My BedIt’s dark and quiet under your bed, but something’s lurking there. Is it a dust bunny, that missing sock… or perhaps a monster! Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.

*Insider’s Tip* Let your kids wear their Halloween costumes to the park. Kids love wearing their costumes anyway, and you can always bring an extra change of clothes if they’ve hade enough playing dress-up. Plus, they can compete in a costume contest and walk away with fun prizes, in addition to taking pictures with Snoopy and the Peanuts gang!

The Shows

From Halloween-themed musical reviews and a magical sideshow, to Gypsy fortune tellers to a sing-a-long with the Peanuts gang, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Sideshow – A Carnival of MagicHigh-energy dance combines with magic to rock your world and tease your senses. Including amazing new illusions! Step right up… if you dare! Located at the Jack Aldrich Theater.

Gypsy FortuneTellersFortunes and fun are the order of the day in our gypsy camp. Located outside of the Millennium Force Tunnel.

The GoodTime Ghouls – A Halloween Hubaloo!A fun, family-oriented music revue of all your ghoul-time favorites in the Ghoul Time Theatre.

Skeleton CrewDon’t miss an extravaganza full of family fun! An amazing cirque style spectacle that will dazzle your senses. Located at the Celebration Showplace near the Iron Dragon

The Edge of Madness: Internal NightmareWelcome to your worst nightmare! Join the monsters at the Red Slaughter Saloon for bedlam, anarchy and musical mayhem.

*Insider’s Tip* No doubt you’ll rack up some miles walking around the park. Don’t miss an opportunity to take a load off while you sit back, relax and enjoy an exciting live show. Some venues even serve up food and drinks, so your show experience can double as lunch or dinner.

Haunted Houses

The park’s haunted houses open at 8 p.m. on Fridays, 5 p.m. on Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays.

(Credit: Cedar Point)

Zombie High SchoolIt’s “back to ghoul” at the new Zombie High School! Try to stay alive as you snake your way through its haunted halls and creepy classrooms. But stay cautious – the walking dead students aren’t ready to let you graduate…ALIVE! Located near the main entrance.

Eden MuseeStep inside this museum filled with wax figures from classic to creepy…and some have been known to come to life! Located near the Mean Streak.

Eternity InfirmaryYou can check in, but you can’t check out! Stay away, or you may become their next patient – for ETERNITY! Located Near the Wave Swinger.

*Insider’s Tip* If you only have time to visit one of these attractions, make sure to check out Zombie High School — easily the park’s best haunted house.

Outdoor Scare Zones

The park’s scare zones open at 8 p.m. on Fridays on Saturdays. The zones are closed on Sundays, except for Oct. 13 when they open at 7 p.m.

(Credit: Cedar Point)

Blood On The BayouLurking along the dark, murky waters of the bayou are mysteries too dangerous to explore, too twisted to explain. It’s where nightmares live in the shadows, gruesome terrors freeze your blood and the dead walk, searching for new prey. Located near the Power Tower.

CarnevilThe crazy clowns and lurking sideshow freaks are waiting to share their special brand of entertainment with you. Step right up! Located at Camp Snoopy.

CornstalkersNavigate your way through this disorienting, twisted path. Beware, there’s more than just corn in this field! Located at Thunder Canyon.

Cut Throat CoveArrrr you brave enough? Meet the motley crews of sunken ships, left scavenging on the shore, waitin’ for rescue for more than 150 years. Located at the Maverick.

Fear FaireStep into our menacing medieval marketplace – just hope that the Inquisition doesn’t come after you! Located near Jack Aldrich Theater.

Maniacal Mechanical ScreamworksJourney into science fiction past and future to explore a sinister, steamy subculture where goggles and gears, Victorians and valves create a world that never was, but might have been. Located along the Frontier Trail.

*Insider’s Tip* If you don’t feel like waiting in line for a haunted house, these scare zones are for you. There’s no waiting and you can walk through each zone as many times as you want.

The Rides

Cedar Point has been voted the “Best Amusement Park in the World” for a record 15 consecutive years for one obvious reason — THE RIDES! The park is home to the largest collection of coasters on the planet — 16! And the coasters aren’t just good, they’re the best.

(Credit: S.L. Stoddart/WWJ Newsradio 950)

Hop on a classic, like the Blue Streak, Gemini, Corkscrew and Magnum XL-200, or take on newer fan favorites, like Millennium Force, Maverick, Top Thrill Dragster and GateKeeper. And don’t forget about the Raptor, Mantis, Wicked Twister, Mean Streak, Iron Dragon and Cedar Creek Mine Ride.

If roller coasters aren’t you thing, don’t worry because Cedar Point is home to scores of other thrill and family rides. If you’re into big thrills, take a ride on the Power Tower, WindSeeker, maXair or Skyhawk. You could also enjoy classic thrills on Calypso, Dogem, Matterhorn, Troika or Ocean Motion.

If you’re looking for a moderate thrill, hop on the Cedar Point and Lake Erie Railroad, Giant Wheel, Midway Carousel, Sky Ride or Antique Cars.

Don’t forget — different rides have different height requirements, so make sure everyone in your group is tall enough to ride before waiting in line.

*Insider’s Tip* An informal poll among Cedar Point employees suggests that no one should leave the park without experiencing Top Thrill Dragster — there’s nothing else like it! Coming in close at second place is GateKeeper, followed by Millennium Force at third place.

The Food

In addition to a wide variety of dining options, Cedar Point is offering guest a chance to enjoy a VIP fine dining experience inside one of their haunted houses.

(Credit: Cedar Point)

Boeckling’s BanquetEnjoy fine dining in the unique setting of the G.A. Boeckling’s Eerie Estate haunted house. Gather with other spirits in the main dining room of the Estate and encounter creepy characters and fine food that’s to die for!

Zombie High SchoolThere’s a total of 3,200 props and almost everything is real, from the lockers and school desks to books and kitchen equipment.
There are 140 jocks. Haven’t been through? I won’t give this one away.

Eden Musee

Walking through the boiler room you might notice some familiar sights from the old Disaster Transport (R.I.P.).

Top Haunted Homes On The Market-Would you prefer to live in a haunted home? Top Ten Real Estate Deals has posted The Top Ten Haunted Homes that are available for purchase. So if you got the money and no fear […]

What to do with your Unwanted Halloween Candy?-Do you have too much Halloween Candy at your house? Are you finding that you and your kids can’t resist eating too many Halloween candies? Do you have Halloween candy you don’t like or want!?? […]

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/top-lists/guide-to-halloweekends-at-cedar-point/feed/0All You Zombies: Five Great Zombie Flicks For Halloweenhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/02/all-you-zombies-five-great-zombie-flicks-for-halloween/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/02/all-you-zombies-five-great-zombie-flicks-for-halloween/#commentsWed, 02 Oct 2013 14:05:52 +0000mreal197http://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=135916Ever since AMC's hit series The Walking Dead took the world by storm on Halloween of 2010, zombies have been catching up with vampires as the creepy threat that has crossed over from horror conventions to the mainstream. But as with vampires, you've got to get through a lot of rotting ooze to get to the real gems: for every hit like True Blood, there's twenty Dark Shadows and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter-type flops.]]>Ever since AMC’s hit series The Walking Dead took the world by storm on Halloween of 2010, zombies have been catching up with vampires as the creepy threat that has crossed over from horror conventions to the mainstream. But as with vampires, you’ve got to get through a lot of rotting ooze to get to the real gems: for every hit like True Blood, there’s twenty Dark Shadows and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter-type flops. So let us do the heavy lifting for you; we’ll shoot, chop and smash our way through the zombies that you wouldn’t want to deal with anyway, and you take care of the true greats of the genre. But make sure you’re locked and loaded… or at least have a very sharp object close at hand. The last zombie flicks standing are particularly tough ones. Make sure you aim for the brain, otherwise, they’ll just keep coming.

Night Of The Living DeadDirector: George RomeroYear: 1968Stars: No one really famous, but the casting of African-American Duane Jones as the lead was controversial for the timePlot: Seven main characters are trapped in a farmhouse in rural Pennsylvania, as “living dead” creatures (who were formerly human) attack them. They’re never actually referred to as “zombies” in the film.Reception: A very controversial film at the time, which happened to be at a time before films were rated. So kids of any age could buy a ticket for this chiller, which ended in a very dark way (don’t worry, no spoilers here). Let’s just say that it wasn’t a feel-good finish. It was one of the most violent, grisly films at the time, with Roger Ebert criticizing theaters for allowing children into the movie. Today, it’s seen as a classic, with the plot being interpreted as a metaphor for the Vietnam War, or just an expression of widespread distrust of the government. In fact, it’s now regarded as a classic film that transcends the genre: it routinely makes lists of the best films ever, and has been selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry as a film deemed “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.”Followed By: George Romero cranked out a lot of other “Living Dead” films (Dawn Of The Dead, Day Of The Dead, etc), but the original remains the best, and scariest.

28 Days LaterDirector: Danny BoyleYear: 2002Stars: Cillian Murphy, Naomie HarrisPlot: Shades of Walking Dead! Murphy’s character wakes from a coma in a hospital after a “rage” virus has turned most of the population of England into zombies. The zombies in this film are stronger and faster than the ones in Night Of The Living Dead and make more formidable enemies. Also (minor spoiler), some of the bad guys are human.Reception: It made zombie films cool again.Followed By: 28 Weeks Later, but without Boyle and Murphy, and didn’t make the impact of the first one.

I Am LegendDirector: Francis LawrenceYear: 2007Stars: Will SmithPlot: Will Smith plays a scientist who believes he is the only surviving human in Manhattan, which has been invaded by vampire-like zombies (they only come out at night) and works to find a cure to return them to their original human form. He later meets other humans, and they fight to find a rumored “safety zone” in Vermont.Reception: It was well reviewed, notably Smith’s performance, and made $77 million in it’s opening weekend.Followed by: Nothing yet, but rumors of a sequel or prequel have circulated for years.

Shaun Of The DeadDirector: Edgar WrightYear: 2004Stars: Simon PeggPlot: Who says a zombie apocalypse can’t be fun? OK, everyone. But it can be funny to watch! Wright and Pegg make mass extinction a laughing matter in this classic Brit film. “Shaun” (Pegg) is a slacker/loser who is oblivious at first that most of the world has become zombies; he barely notices the difference from life as usual. This one doesn’t end as badly as some of the others, (spoiler alert) Shaun ultimately keeps one of his zombie-fied friends in his shed, where they can play video games together. It may not be a great message of tolerance, but the end game is, even though his pal is a zombie, their relationship doesn’t ever have to change!Reception: The film got great reviews, routinely is mentioned on lists of top films, horror films, comedies and zombie films, and counted George Romero and Quentin Tarantino among its fans.Followed by: … despite that, it is unlikely to be followed by anything, and no sequels, prequels or reboots are in the works.

ZombielandDirector: Ruben FleischerYear: 2009Stars: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma StonePlot: Jesse Eisenberg plays his usual character — witty, socially awkward –, but this time he is teamed in weird buddy-flick style with Woody Harrelson’s crazy “Tallahassee” as the two fight their way across the country. Oh, and he pines for Emma Stone, a con-girl who easily gets the best of him. Bonus: it has one of the best cameos ever. If you haven’t seen it, don’t Google this or ask your friends about it. Get the film and watch it. Thank us later.Reception: The film did well, and both Eisenberg and Stone went on to much bigger films.Followed by: Nothing yet, although there’s always rumors of a sequel or even a TV series (although there’s the matter of that other hit series where the heroes fight a worldwide zombie takeover…)

— Brian Ives, CBS Local

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/10/02/all-you-zombies-five-great-zombie-flicks-for-halloween/feed/0Nude Haunted House For Halloweenhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/09/19/nude-haunted-house-for-halloween/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/09/19/nude-haunted-house-for-halloween/#commentsThu, 19 Sep 2013 18:40:31 +0000Beau Danielshttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=152386There’s a haunted house that’s daring people to walk thru nude. I guess seeing some folks nude would scare more than spiders, zombies, skeletons, and chainsaw-wielding maniacs, maybe. The concept comes from that fact that […]]]>There’s a haunted house that’s daring people to walk thru nude. I guess seeing some folks nude would scare more than spiders, zombies, skeletons, and chainsaw-wielding maniacs, maybe. The concept comes from that fact that the biggest fear for some, is seeing themselves naked. It’s called Shocktoberfest and they’re saying you don’t have to worry about a bunch of people staring at your nude body, because it takes place in the dark and only people who are also naked are allowed in at the same time. You can also walk in with others who are fully clothed. Inside Magic“Email beau@womc.com
“Like” Beau on Facebook
“Like” us on Facebook & Follow us on Twitter]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2013/09/19/nude-haunted-house-for-halloween/feed/010 Movies To Count Down The Zombie Apocalypsehttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/12/21/10-movies-to-count-down-the-zombie-apocalypse/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/12/21/10-movies-to-count-down-the-zombie-apocalypse/#commentsFri, 21 Dec 2012 16:11:59 +0000Steve Wisemanhttp://cbswomc2.wordpress.com/?p=141292As you have probably heard by now the 13th b’ak’tun of the Mayan long count cycle ends on Dec 21st. Some have speculated that this will mean the end of the world. Though there is […]]]>As you have probably heard by now the 13th b’ak’tun of the Mayan long count cycle ends on Dec 21st. Some have speculated that this will mean the end of the world. Though there is massive speculation, 12.21.2012 has also been cited as the beginning of the Zombie Apocalypse or Z-Day.

Maybe you are a true believer or just think some people have way too much time on their hands but it may be a great time to celebrate the Zombie movie genre. Think of it as research.

Grab some popcorn, sharpen your machete, and watch some of the best films with the walking dead.

The George A. Romero classic that started it all. The black and white classic was shot on a shoestring budget with Romero speculating that the films popularity was tied to it mistakenly being ‘public domain.’

Why you should watch it: Simply it is a classic both as a horror film and as a piece of American film history.

Quite frankly the best zombie comedy ever made. The film stars Simon Pegg and Nick Frost a couple of hapless idiots that are faced with the zombie apocalypse. Their solution – get their loved ones and head to the safest place they know – the Pub.

Why you should watch it: There are too many great scenes to name but a personal favorite is Pegg and Frost trying to kill zombies with Pegg’s record collection.

Though they are very different movies, we found you can not talk about one without the other. The 1978 classic with George A. Romero at the helm has the classic Romero feel and builds upon the story from 1968’s Night Of The Living Dead. The added bonus of legendary horror special effects man Tom Savini.

Why you should watch it: It’s another classic of the genre that can’t be missed.

The 2004 re-imagining of the Dawn Of The Dead had director Zack Snyder (300, The Watchmen) and stars Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, and Mekhi Phifer. Most of the action takes place in suburban shopping mall and the film is as gory as it is entertaining.

This Spanish zombie movie features a local news crew on a routine ride along with local a fire station that goes horribly wrong. Because most of the film is done ‘point of view’ style there are some real scares as soon as you get used to the shaky camera. It also inspired multiple sequels and an American film series Quarantine.

What many have called one of the goriest films of all time the New Zealand film Dead Alive is a true gore-fest. The Peter Jackson (yes – the same guy who brought us Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit) co-wrote and directed this story of zombie infection from a “Sumatran Rat-Monkey.” The movie is as funny and it is blood and puss filled.

Why you should watch it: Creative use of gardening equipment is key to a classic scene. Make sure you get the unrated or directors/extended cut.

Another comedic take on the undead, Zombielandstars Emma Stone, Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, and Abigail Breslin. The on going ‘rules’ to zombie survival are hilarious and Woody Harrelson as a Twinkie obsessed bad ass played against Eisenberg’s nerdy nervousness works perfectly.

Why you should watch: Bill Murray makes a cameo as himself plus the inclusion of a zombie clown!

Academy Award winning director Danny Boyle is at the helm of this British zombie flix. The movie centers around a just awoken coma patient 28 days after a viral outbreak. Hey and if you want to make a film fest out of it you can watch the 2007 sequel 28 Weeks Later.

Why you should watch: Fast running zombies are key to the film (and to some of the film’s detractors).

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/12/21/10-movies-to-count-down-the-zombie-apocalypse/feed/0What’s Your Favorite Halloween Candy?http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/31/whats-your-favorite-halloween-candy/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/31/whats-your-favorite-halloween-candy/#commentsWed, 31 Oct 2012 08:32:13 +0000Bob Schumanhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=136550Okay mom and dad, this one’s for you. Your kids will come home with a big pile of candy after trick or treating tonight and no doubt you’ll sneak a bite or two. So which […]]]>Okay mom and dad, this one’s for you. Your kids will come home with a big pile of candy after trick or treating tonight and no doubt you’ll sneak a bite or two. So which is your favorite? Sound off on my poll below.

We’re happy to report that all was quiet in Detroit last night on Angels’ Night. Prior to 1995 the night before Halloween was known as Devil’s Night and it was tradition for young thugs to set buildings on fire. The madness peaked in 1984 when more than 800 arson fires were reported.

Thanks to a volunteer army of thousands, last night was just another “regular” night in the city for police and fire fighters.

Okay time for the poll. I must admit that while I do not have a sweet tooth at all, if I see a Butterfinger candy bar, I’m liable to go for it!

Which is your fav? Take my poll and see how you compare with others. And Happy Halloween!

Take Our Poll]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/31/whats-your-favorite-halloween-candy/feed/05 Great Vampire Movies For Halloweenhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/29/5-great-vampire-movies-for-halloween/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/29/5-great-vampire-movies-for-halloween/#commentsMon, 29 Oct 2012 21:21:06 +0000Steve Wisemanhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=136486If you want to go deeper than "Interview With A Vampire," the "Twilight" films and "True Blood," here are some recommendations, ranging from cinematic classics to trashy fun.]]>Every since Nosferatu hit the silver screen in 1922, not a decade has gone by (and rarely even a year) without a vampire film to creep out the masses. So, there are hundreds of vampire movies to choose from… and only so much blood to go around. But if you want to go deeper than Interview With A Vampire, the Twilight films and True Blood, here are some recommendations, ranging from cinematic classics to trashy fun.

Dracula
Director: Tod BrowningYear: 1931Stars: Bela Lugosi, of course! And Dwight FryPlot: Reinfeld goes on a business trip to Transylvania where he unfortunately tries to do business with Count Dracula, who turns out to be a… you guessed it! He falls under the Count’s power, and then smuggles his new master to London and after that… hide your daughters, hide your wife!Reception: The classic, the gold standard. If you’re OK with a slow moving film, this is a rewarding one, and the one that informed all vampire movies to come. Fun fact: two of the stars were immortalized in rock songs decades after the film came out: goth-rockers Bauhaus’ debut single was 1979’s “Bela Lugosi’s Dead”(which itself was used in the 1983 vampire film The Hunger, starring David Bowie). Alice Cooper, meanwhile, paid homage to the actor who played Reinfeld in “The Ballad Of Dwight Fry” from his 1971 Love It To Death LP.Followed By: There was 1936’s Dracula’s Daughter and 1943’s Son Of Dracula (starring Lon Chaney Jr.). But really, every Dracula movie ever followed this one.

Fright NightDirector: Tom HollandYear: 1985Stars: Chris Sarandon (Susan’s ex!) and Roddy McDowellPlot: A horror film buff discovers that he’s living next door to a vampire (played by Sarandon). No one believes him. Yes, it’s a comedy (and a glorious ’80s one at that) as well as a vampire flick.Reception: Sort of a cult classic, cited more often by tastemakers than the general public, it sports a 93% approval rating from critics on the website Rotten Tomatoes, although only a 71 percent rating from the audience.Followed By: The 1988 sequel Fright Night II didn’t make the same kind of splash (or splatter). Nor did a 2011 remake starring Colin Farrell as the vampire-next-door.

The LostBoysDirector: Joel SchumacherYear: 1987Stars: Jason Patric, Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Haim, Corey Feldman,Dianne WiestPlot: Two brothers (played by Haim and Patric) move to Santa Clara, California, with their mother. It turns out that the town is run by gangs. But no, they’re not just any gangs, they’re vampires!Reception: The film offered a different take on vampires. The tagline, “Sleep all day. Party all night. Never grow old. Never die. It’s fun to be a vampire” made it the perfect scary movie/teen flick crossover of the era. Add to that the soundtrack – INXS’s cover of The Easybeats’ “Good Time Tonight,” Echo & The Bunnymen’s take on The Doors’ “People Are Strange” and Roger Daltrey’s version of Elton John’s “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” (which lyricist Bernie Taupin probably didn’t write with vampires in mind) – and you have a perfect storm to get teens back into the vampire genre.Followed By: Lost Boys: The Tribe in 2008 was a straight-to-DVD release; 2010’s Lost Boys: The Thirst followed. Neither featured Keifer Sutherland (although The Tribe featured Angus Sutherland, Keifer’s half-brother!), and neither made an impact.

From Dusk ‘Til DawnDirector: Robert RodriguezYear: 1996Stars: George Clooney (making his leading-man debut), Quentin Tarantino (who also wrote the screenplay), Juliette Lewis and Harvey Keitel were the main cast members, but the film also featured Cheech Marin (in multiple roles) and horror flick mainstays Danny Trejo, Fred Williamson and Tom Savini. Oh, and Salma Hayek. As a snake-charming exotic dancer who turns out to be a (surprise!) vampire.Plot: Two brothers (played by Clooney and Tarantino) are bank robbers trying to make their way to Mexico. They hijack Harvey Keitel’s family’s RV and stop at a bar in Mexico, with a name that we can’t use here. Anyway, it turns out almost everyone there is a… well, you know.Reception: Mixed. If you like Tarantino and Rodriguez’s takes on ’70s flicks (a la their Grindhouse collaboration), and you prefer your vampires as feral beasts rather than angst-ridden human-like creatures, this might be for you. Also, you should like blood and gore. Lots of it.Followed By: Lots of George Clooney films that had nothing to do with vampires! Neither he, nor the rest of the main cast, appeared in the little-known sequels 1999’s From Dusk ‘Til Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money or 2000’s From Dusk ‘Til Dawn 3: The Hangman’s Daughter (which is actually a prequel to the first film). Danny Trejo appears in both 2 and 3, however.

Let The Right One InDirector: Tomas AlfredsonYear: 2008Stars: Kåre Hedebrant and Lina Leandersson, both barely 13 when they filmed this.Plot: A young Swedish boy is bullied at school… until he meets a girl who, as it turns out, is a vampire (and vampires never age once they are “turned,” so she will spend the rest of her days preserved as a 13 year old).Reception: Not too many Swedish romantic horror films starring children make it to these shores. But this one did, and got a 97% rating from Rotten Tomatoes‘ critics, and an impressive 89% from their audience.Followed By: In 2010, an American English-language version, Let Me In, came out. It got decent reviews as well, but if you don’t mind subtitles, stick with the original.

There are plenty of other great and/or vampire films: 30 Days Of Night, Andy Warhol’s Blood For Dracula, Shadow Of The Vampire, the 1932 Danish film classic Vampyr, and the ultra-trashy Suck (starring Alice Cooper, Iggy Pop and Alex Lifeson of Rush).

What are your favorite vampire movies? Sound off in the comments below!

— Brian Ives, CBS Local

]]>http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/29/5-great-vampire-movies-for-halloween/feed/0How To Dress Like Alice Cooper For Halloweenhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/29/how-to-dress-like-alice-cooper-for-halloween/
http://womc.cbslocal.com/2012/10/29/how-to-dress-like-alice-cooper-for-halloween/#commentsMon, 29 Oct 2012 18:25:12 +0000Steve Wisemanhttp://womc.cbslocal.com/?p=136466Need a last-minute costume? This one's easy - all about the messy hair, makeup and leather.]]>Anyone at least slightly familiar with Alice Cooper recognizes the look instantly: messy black hair, Frankenstein-esque makeup, and lots of leather. If you’re in need of a last-minute Halloween costume, look no further. Consider this your official guide to an easy Alice Cooper costume.

1. The Hair

If you already have long black hair, you’re in luck. Just make your hair as dry, stringy and messy as possible to look like Alice. A hair wax or pomade will help it stay in place, or simply a hefty bit of hairspray. But if you need a wig, anything long, black and messy should do the trick. Something like this in all black could work.

2. The Makeup

This one is simple: just get any kind of black makeup and paint two lines from the edges of your mouth to the bottom of your chin, then surround your eyes with black eyeliner almost to the point of looking like a raccoon. But, like, the most bad-ass raccoon imaginable. You could buy a fancy makeup kit, or you could just use a black eyeliner pencil softened with the tip of your finger, then smudged.

3. The Props

Alice is famous for simulating his own death on-stage, so if you’re really going for the real thing you can bring a noose or guillotine. But for safety’s sake, just go with a rubber snake.

4. Black t-shirt

He’s more known for the leather, but the under-shirt is also key. Something with skulls or blood or something evil on it should do the trick, like the one he’s wearing in this picture.

5. Leather

Bonus points if you get something studded. But the pants, jacket, gloves…All need to be leather and at least slightly fitted. No exceptions!

6. Microphone

You don’t want people asking you all day, “If you’re a singer, then where’s your microphone?” Whether it’s a real or fake mic, just make sure you’re prepared. If you’re going the real route (which you should at least consider), try this one or this one.